Ionic EquilibriumhardMCQ MULTIPLE

According to the modern theory of acid-base indicators, an indicator is typically a weak organic aciIonic Equilibrium Chemistry Question

Question

According to the modern theory of acid-base indicators, an indicator is typically a weak organic acid ($HIn$) or a weak organic base. Which of the following statements rigorously describe the mathematical and physical behaviour of a weak acid indicator?

Answer: A,B,C

💡 Solution & Explanation

Indicators rely on the contrasting colours of their protonated and deprotonated states (Quinoid theory). They visually transition across a roughly 2-unit pH range centered around their $pK_a$ ($pK_{In} \pm 1$). At $pH = pK_{In}$, $[HIn] = [In^-]$, producing a mixed/intermediate colour. Statement D is false because adding a strong acid supplies $H^+$, which shifts the equilibrium $HIn \rightleftharpoons H^+ + In^-$ backward via the common ion effect, generating more unionized $HIn$, not $In^-$.

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